The Claiborne to host a drive-by parade

On Saturday, Feb. 27, the Claiborne at Adelaide, a senior living community, will host a drive-by parade for residents at 2 p.m.

Because of COVID-19 restrictions and the danger the virus poses on the senior community, many residents have been unable to see family, friends and the community. However, Saturday the residents of The Claiborne will line up on the community sidewalk and other socially distant places to receive a parade.

The entire Starkville community is invited to participate in the parade. Because it is all a drive-by parade participants are encouraged to decorate the cars, create posters, dress up and even play music while they drive around the community and show residents they are appreciated and loved. Resident judge will even choose their top three favorite participants’ decorations, and the winner will go home with a trophy.

Right now can be a dark time for families separated from seeing each other in the pandemic, and even with those 65 and older eligible to receive the vaccine, not all have and those who have are still encouraged to wear their face masks and to socially distance. For people only confined to one area for their safety with only contact through technology, it can be extremely lonely and can cause mental health to plummet.

Though not perfect, the community drive-bys are good ways for families to safely see their loved ones and let them know they are thinking about each other, the time they have spent together and will hopefully spend together by the end of the year.

There is no word yet on if this event will go as planned or be rescheduled if the weather is unfavorable.

Those who are looking to participate will meet in the parking lot before 2 p.m. on Saturday to line up. Local police and The Claiborne staff will guide parade participants throughout the neighborhood.